For City Council Meeting April 8, 2025
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Tanya Williams, City Manager
AUTHOR: Brian Park, Fire Chief
Title
Request City Council to: (1) Approve a Contract with Fotokite for the Acquisition of Actively Tethered Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for $140,524, and (2) Authorize the City Manager or their designee to execute all Related Documents.
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council:
1. Approve a contract with Fotokite for the acquisition of actively tethered UAS to enhance the Fire Department's emergency response capabilities; and,
2. Authorize the City Manager or their designee to execute all necessary documents to effectuate this contract.
BACKGROUND
The Fire Department continually seeks innovative solutions to improve emergency response and public safety. Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have become valuable tools for providing real-time aerial intelligence during incidents. However, traditional free-flying drones require certified pilots and are subject to stringent regulatory constraints, which can limit their deployment in time-sensitive situations.
Fotokite's actively tethered UAS offer a unique solution by providing autonomous flight capabilities without the need for piloting. These systems are recognized by aviation authorities as safer alternatives to non-tethered drones and are exempt from certain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, including Part 107 and Certificate of Authorization (COA) requirements. This exemption allows for more rapid and flexible deployment during emergencies.
ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION
Implementing Fotokite's actively tethered UAS will provide our public safety team with significant advancements in situational awareness and operational efficiency. Key benefits of this system include:
* Autonomous Operation: The system launches, hovers, and lands with a single button press, requiring no piloting and allowing personnel to focus on critical tasks.
* Extende...
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